Punti chiave
1. La vendetta pubblica della sposa tradita
Perché a volte la vendetta va preparata d’impulso, nel calore del momento.
Caos nel giorno del matrimonio. Sabrina, pochi istanti prima delle nozze, scopre che il suo fidanzato Chad la tradisce con la damigella d’onore grazie a un messaggio vocale inviato per errore. Invece di andarsene in silenzio, decide di fare un clamoroso annuncio pubblico. Inganna la wedding planner facendole trasmettere il messaggio compromettente attraverso l’impianto audio della sala, davanti a tutti i 250 invitati.
La prova nel messaggio. La registrazione cattura Chad che canta al suo gattino adottivo di aver ricevuto un “blow job” dalla damigella per trovare il “coraggio del BJ” e dire “sì”, oltre a garantirsi un bonus dalla società del padre di Sabrina. Così vengono allo scoperto sia il tradimento sia le sue motivazioni mercenarie. Sabrina annuncia allora la fine del matrimonio e se ne va, lasciando di stucco famiglia e Chad.
Il disappunto dei genitori. I suoi genitori si preoccupano più dell’apparenza e dell’imbarazzo che del suo dolore. Schierati con Chad, accusano Sabrina di aver inventato tutto e di essere poco professionale. Il padre la licenzia dall’azienda di famiglia e minaccia di tagliarle ogni sostegno a meno che non chieda scusa, dimostrando come per loro contino più il controllo e la perfezione che il suo benessere.
2. Trovare sostegno e un nuovo inizio
Donne che aiutano donne. Mi piace.
Incontro inaspettato. Fuggendo dal disastro del matrimonio, ancora in abito da sposa e con le ciabatte del conducente Lyft, Sabrina incrocia Tyler Falcon, il bel papà single della sua allieva di pattinaggio, in un bar di un hotel locale. Gli confida tutto e lui le offre supporto, tequila e nachos, facendola sentire vista e accolta per la prima volta in quella giornata.
Le amiche si fanno avanti. Le sue amiche (Leighton, Isla, Josie, Everly, Maeve, Skylar, Fable, Trevyn) si stringono intorno a lei, offrendole un posto dove stare e aiuto concreto. Ascoltano senza giudicare e celebrano il suo coraggio nel lasciare una situazione tossica. Questa rete di famiglia scelta le dà il sostegno emotivo e pratico che la sua famiglia biologica le ha negato.
Un’opportunità di lavoro. La madre di Tyler, colpita dal legame tra Sabrina e sua figlia Luna, le propone il ruolo di babysitter. Questo le garantisce una casa stabile (un appartamento con giardino nella casa di Tyler) e un reddito, permettendole di ricostruire la sua vita e far crescere la sua attività di allenatrice di pattinaggio dopo essere stata tagliata fuori dal padre.
3. Un lavoro da babysitter inaspettato per il bel papà
Sei proprio ciò di cui Tyler e i bambini hanno bisogno.
La ricerca della babysitter. Tyler, giocatore professionista di hockey e papà single, fatica a trovare una babysitter affidabile per i suoi figli, Luna e Parker, soprattutto con la stagione di hockey alle porte. Sua madre interviene per aiutarlo nella ricerca, consapevole della necessità di una persona fidata e capace con i bambini.
La scelta della mamma. Lauren, la madre di Tyler, nota il naturale rapporto tra Sabrina e Luna durante le lezioni di pattinaggio. Riconoscendo la gentilezza, l’affidabilità e la sincera cura di Sabrina per i bambini, le offre il lavoro di babysitter, convinta che sia la persona giusta nonostante la mancanza di esperienza formale.
Prossimità forzata. Sabrina accetta il lavoro, che prevede di vivere in un appartamento separato all’interno della casa di Tyler. Questo crea una convivenza forzata con l’uomo a cui aveva appena confidato i suoi desideri più profondi pochi mesi prima, preparando il terreno per imbarazzi e un’attrazione innegabile sotto lo stesso tetto, nonostante l’accordo di fingere che il loro incontro in hotel non sia mai avvenuto.
4. L’attrazione sotto lo stesso tetto sfocia in un “programma sessuale”
Voglio che tu mi prenda la vera verginità.
Chimica innegabile. Nonostante l’accordo iniziale di ignorare la forte connessione nata quella notte di nozze, vivere e lavorare insieme rende impossibile farlo. L’attrazione tra Sabrina e Tyler ribolle, alimentata da gesti premurosi (come lui che le compra lenzuola e attrezzatura per lo yoga) e incontri ravvicinati accidentali (come quando la sorprende in garage avvolta in un asciugamano).
Riemergono confessioni. La tensione culmina in un bacio appassionato sul tappetino da yoga di Sabrina. Tyler ammette di non aver mai smesso di pensare alle sue confessioni di quella notte, in particolare al suo desiderio che lui le insegni cosa significa fare l’amore davvero...
Ultimo aggiornamento:
FAQ
What’s The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely about?
- Runaway bride meets single dad: The novel follows Sabrina Snow, who flees her wedding after discovering her fiancé’s infidelity, and Tyler Falcon, a professional hockey player and single father.
- Workplace romance and healing: Sabrina becomes Tyler’s nanny, and their relationship develops amid personal heartbreak, professional boundaries, and the challenges of blending families.
- Themes of starting over: The story explores betrayal, second chances, found family, and the complexities of love in unconventional circumstances.
- Sporty, heartfelt setting: Set against the backdrop of ice skating and hockey, the book combines steamy romance with emotional growth and family dynamics.
Why should I read The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Engaging, relatable romance: The chemistry between Sabrina and Tyler is electric, with a mix of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments.
- Strong character development: Both leads are realistically flawed and experience significant personal growth, making their journey compelling.
- Fresh take on classic tropes: The single dad/nanny dynamic, jilted bride, and found family themes are given new life with a sports setting and emotional depth.
- Accessible, entertaining writing: Lauren Blakely’s style is witty and immersive, making the book a satisfying read for contemporary romance fans.
Who are the main characters in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely and what are their backgrounds?
- Sabrina Snow: A former competitive figure skater turned coach and nanny, Sabrina is independent, resilient, and healing from a broken engagement and family estrangement.
- Tyler Falcon: A professional hockey player and devoted single father, Tyler is protective, responsible, and determined to be a better parent than his own father.
- Supporting cast: Tyler’s children, Luna and Parker, play central roles, while friends, family, and teammates add humor, support, and complexity to the story.
- Rich emotional landscape: The interplay between these characters drives the novel’s themes of healing, trust, and new beginnings.
How does the relationship between Sabrina and Tyler develop in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Dramatic first meeting: Their connection begins when Sabrina flees her wedding and later meets Tyler at a bar, sparking immediate but complicated attraction.
- Forced proximity and boundaries: Sabrina is hired as Tyler’s nanny, leading to close contact and growing tension as they navigate professional and personal lines.
- Gradual emotional intimacy: Their relationship evolves from cautious respect to flirtation, vulnerability, and eventually deep emotional and physical intimacy.
- Balancing love and responsibility: They must negotiate the challenges of dating within a work environment and blending their families.
What are the key themes and takeaways from The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Second chances and healing: The novel emphasizes that love and happiness are possible after betrayal and heartbreak.
- Vulnerability and trust: Honest communication and emotional openness are central to Sabrina and Tyler’s journey.
- Family and belonging: The story celebrates chosen family, the importance of support systems, and the creation of new traditions.
- Balancing work and romance: It explores the complexities of workplace relationships and the need for boundaries and respect.
How does The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely portray the single dad/nanny and workplace romance dynamic?
- Professional challenges: Sabrina’s role as Tyler’s employee complicates their growing attraction, requiring careful navigation of boundaries.
- Mutual respect and communication: Both characters openly discuss the risks and agree on boundaries, such as keeping certain aspects private.
- Conflict and resolution: Jealousy, misunderstandings, and temptation test their relationship, but they work through issues with honesty and care.
- Realistic portrayal: The book highlights the tension and rewards of mixing work and romance, especially in a family setting.
What role do Luna and Parker play in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Emotional anchors: Tyler’s children are central to the plot, influencing the pace and direction of the adult relationship.
- Character development: Interactions with Luna and Parker reveal Sabrina and Tyler’s nurturing sides and help them confront fears about family and love.
- Plot drivers: The children’s activities, such as skating lessons and creative projects, provide key settings for character growth and bonding.
- Blended family dynamics: Their acceptance of Sabrina is crucial to the story’s resolution and themes of belonging.
How does The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely address healing from past trauma and starting over?
- Sabrina’s journey: She rebuilds her life after public betrayal and family rejection, finding strength and purpose in her new role.
- Tyler’s challenges: He grapples with the aftermath of a failed marriage and the pressures of single parenthood and professional sports.
- Mutual support: Their relationship becomes a source of healing, as they help each other confront vulnerabilities and past wounds.
- Emphasis on resilience: The narrative highlights the power of connection, honesty, and acceptance in overcoming pain.
What is the significance of the “game plan” and “sex list” in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Game plan for boundaries: Tyler and Sabrina create a “game plan” to manage their relationship, setting rules like no public affection and no sleepovers when the kids are home.
- Sex list as exploration: Sabrina’s “sex list” of desires and fantasies becomes a playful, intimate way for the couple to deepen their bond.
- Balancing fun and responsibility: These tools help them navigate the challenges of mixing passion with practicality in a blended family.
- Symbol of trust: Both the game plan and sex list reflect their willingness to communicate openly and respect each other’s needs.
How is intimacy and sexuality portrayed in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Explicit and passionate: The book features detailed, steamy scenes that highlight the chemistry between Tyler and Sabrina.
- Exploration and learning: Sabrina’s journey includes discovering pleasure and confidence, with Tyler as a patient and attentive partner.
- Respect and consent: Their sexual relationship is built on mutual respect, communication, and care, modeling healthy intimacy.
- Integral to emotional connection: Physical intimacy is portrayed as a key part of their growing trust and emotional bond.
What role do family dynamics and found family play in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Sabrina’s family conflict: Her parents are unsupportive and critical, leading to estrangement and motivating her to build a new life.
- Tyler’s supportive network: His mother, siblings, and friends provide humor, advice, and pressure, enriching the story’s emotional landscape.
- Found family theme: Sabrina finds support and belonging with friends, colleagues, and Tyler’s hockey community.
- Contrast and growth: The novel contrasts biological family tensions with the warmth and acceptance of chosen family.
What role do foster kittens and animals play in The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely?
- Symbol of nurturing: Fostering kittens brings Tyler, Sabrina, and the kids closer, symbolizing their growing family and mutual care.
- Emotional comfort: The animals provide solace during stressful times, reinforcing themes of compassion and healing.
- Building new traditions: Caring for animals together helps establish routines and bonds, supporting the found family narrative.
- Plot enrichment: The kittens add warmth, humor, and opportunities for character development.
What are the best quotes from The Overtime Kiss by Lauren Blakely and what do they mean?
- “You deserve more than St. Bernards, sloppy kisses, and a guy who holds you back. You deserve someone who lets you shine.” Tyler’s note to Sabrina highlights the theme of self-worth and finding a supportive partner.
- “I have this whole fantasy that starts with your beard.” Sabrina’s candid confession symbolizes the honesty and excitement in their relationship.
- “You are the deal. And it’s a big deal.” Tyler’s words underscore the importance of Sabrina’s pleasure and agency, reflecting respect and consent.
- “Starting over isn’t supposed to be easy.” This line acknowledges the challenges of rebuilding after heartbreak, serving as a reminder of resilience and hope.
Recensioni
The Overtime Kiss è un romanzo rosa molto apprezzato che racconta la storia di Tyler, un papà single e giocatore di hockey, e Sabrina, un’allenatrice di pattinaggio artistico che diventa la sua tata. I lettori lodano la chimica tra i personaggi, le dolci dinamiche familiari e l’equilibrio tra umorismo e profondità emotiva. Il libro sfrutta con maestria alcuni cliché molto amati, come la vicinanza forzata e la famiglia ritrovata. Molti hanno inoltre apprezzato la narrazione in audiolibro di Teddy Hamilton e Brooke Bloomingdale. In generale, sia i fan della serie sia i nuovi lettori hanno trovato la storia coinvolgente, appassionante e capace di scaldare il cuore.
